Rosemary Oil Vs Minoxidil: Which One Is Better For You?

Medically reviewed by Dr. Amy Revene M.B.B.S.
Written by Our Editorial Team
Last updated

In today's world, a full, healthy head of hair signifies not just beauty but overall well-being.

Yet, not everyone is fortunate to naturally have lush locks, and some even struggle with hair loss in men or women. 

This can be unsettling, especially when dealing with inherited hair loss conditions, but fear not! 

There are countless products and remedies, such as rosemary oil and topical Minoxidil, that promise to enhance hair growth and thickness.

The debate between natural and synthetic remedies for hair growth is ongoing, so we're examining rosemary oil for hair growth, a natural remedy known for its nourishing properties, and Minoxidil, a scientifically-proven hair loss treatment. 

The oil has been shown to help some individuals regrow their hair. 

Both have distinct benefits and followers, making it hard to choose the better option for your hair health. That's why we're providing this thorough analysis of Rosemary Oil and Minoxidil to help you make an informed decision. 

Let's dive into this comparison and discover the ideal hair growth solution for you!

Summary

Both Rosemary Oil and Minoxidil present valid approaches to addressing hair loss and promoting hair growth. 

Each has unique benefits; Rosemary Oil harnesses the power of natural plant extracts to potentially improve blood circulation and inhibit DHT, while Minoxidil, an FDA-approved, safe to use, synthetic medication, is renowned for its ability to extend the growth phase of hair follicles.

Clinical studies have highlighted the efficacy of both treatments. Some have even suggested Rosemary Oil may be as effective as Minoxidil in treating androgenetic alopecia, with fewer reported side effects. 

However, individual responses can vary, and both treatments typically require consistent use over several months before noticeable results are seen.

As an alternative, the Bio-Pilixin Serum offers a comprehensive approach to hair loss treatment, incorporating both the mechanisms of Rosemary Oil and Minoxidil. 

Additionally, it brings a layer of environmental protection for hair follicles, showcasing the potential to be a highly effective solution for those dealing with hair loss.

Overall, if you are wondering whether to choose Rosemary Oil or Minoxidil, or even alternatives like Bio-Pilixin Serum, it will largely depend on individual circumstances, the severity of hair loss, and personal preference between natural or synthesized treatments. 

As always, it's highly recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new hair loss treatment regimen.

 

What is rosemary oil?

rosemary oil vs minoxidil

Rosemary oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaf extract of the Rosemary plant, in the Mediterranean region- scientifically known as Rosmarinus officinalis. It's renowned for its aromatic, culinary, and medicinal uses, including its potential benefits for hair health.

The use of rosemary oil for hair health is not a new phenomenon. This aromatic herb was used in traditional medicine long before it found its way into today's hair products. 

Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, rosemary oil is believed to stimulate blood circulation to the scalp, promoting healthier and potentially thicker hair growth.

How does rosemary oil increase hair growth?

Rosemary oil for hair loss is believed to enhance hair growth through its ability to improve blood circulation. By applying it to the scalp, or mixing it with shampoo, it can stimulate the hair follicles by increasing blood flow, which can potentially lead to increased hair growth. 

Additionally, rosemary oil might also inhibit the action of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone shown to cause hair loss. By potentially blocking this process, rosemary oil could help to slow or prevent hair loss and thinning.

Clinical studies and results

Indeed, several scientific studies have suggested that rosemary oil could be an effective treatment for androgenic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness. A prominent 2015 randomized comparative trial demonstrated that rosemary oil performed on par with minoxidil (Rogaine), a popular pharmaceutical treatment for this type of hair loss. 

Notably, those using rosemary oil reported fewer side effects than the minoxidil group, such as itchy scalp, a common complaint among minoxidil users. 

Male pattern baldness is largely driven by dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of the hormone testosterone. DHT binds to receptors in hair follicles, leading to hair thinning and eventual loss. 

As men typically have higher testosterone levels than women, they often experience hair loss more frequently, more severely, and at a younger age.

Intriguingly, a 2013 study on mice found that rosemary oil could potentially counter this process. 

Mice with testosterone-related hair loss exhibited hair regrowth when treated with rosemary oil, leading researchers to speculate that the oil might prevent DHT from binding to hormone receptors in the hair follicles, thus averting hair loss. 

What are the side effects of using rosemary oil?

Here are the major side effects and risks associated with using rosemary oil: 

  • Rosemary oil may not be safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding (chestfeeding). Some labels on 100% rosemary products warn against use as it could potentially affect the fetus or lead to a miscarriage.
  • Rosemary essential oil can potentially irritate the skin if applied in high concentrations or without a carrier oil. Symptoms can include discomfort, redness, itching, or a burning sensation. To avoid this, it's recommended to dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil before applying it to your scalp.
  • Allergic reactions are possible, especially for individuals with known sensitivities to the Lamiaceae family of plants, to which rosemary belongs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rashes, breathing difficulties, or swelling. 
  • Ingesting large amounts of rosemary oil can lead to serious side effects, including vomiting, spasms, or even pulmonary edema. 

What is Minoxidil?

rosemary oil vs minoxidil

Minoxidil is a medication primarily used to stimulate hair growth and slow balding. It is widely known under the brand name Rogaine and is available over-the-counter in various forms, including topical foam and solution.

Originally developed as a treatment for high blood pressure, Minoxidil's hair growth stimulating properties were used to treat hair loss.  

Minoxidil is commonly used to treat androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern hair loss, or thinning hair. It has proven effectiveness in numerous clinical studies for male pattern hair loss.

How does minoxidil increase hair growth?

Minoxidil promotes hair growth by extending the anagen phase, which is the active growth phase of hair follicles. It achieves this by opening potassium channels, which results in increased blood flow and oxygen, nutrients, and hormonal delivery to the hair follicles. This, in turn, stimulates the follicles and encourages them to produce new, healthy hair

However, the exact mechanism by which Minoxidil stimulates hair growth is not entirely understood. 

It's important to note that while Minoxidil can help to stimulate hair growth, it doesn't specifically target the hormonal cause of hair loss, such as DHT.

Clinical studies and results

Two significant studies focusing on the effects of 5% Minoxidil for treating male-pattern hair loss and alopecia areata have shown promising results.

The first study, conducted over a year, involved 984 men with male-pattern hair loss. The participants applied 1 ml of 5% minoxidil solution twice a day to the areas of the scalp affected by hair loss. 

Throughout this period, participants collected their lost hair during washing for laboratory counting. By the end of the year, dermatologists observed that hair loss areas had decreased in size for 62% of the patients, demonstrating a significant increase in hair count. 

The second study, conducted over 4 months and involving 743 men with male-pattern hair loss, yielded similarly encouraging results. 

At the end of the study period, 67.3% of men judged their hair loss areas to be smaller, while 31.9% reported no change, and only 0.8% observed larger areas of hair loss. 

Importantly, 7.5% of men found the 5% minoxidil solution very effective in stimulating new hair growth, and 74.2% reported improved hair density.

These studies highlight the efficacy of Minoxidil in not only slowing down hair loss but also promoting new hair growth, emphasizing its potential as a viable treatment for male-pattern hair loss.

What are the side effects of using Minoxidil?

Here are some of the potential side effects of using Minoxidil:

  • Application site reactions: The area of skin where minoxidil is applied can experience burning, stinging, or redness.
  • Unwanted facial/body hair: In some cases, minoxidil can cause hair growth in unwanted places, including the face and other parts of the body.
  • Dizziness or fainting: This can occur if the medication is absorbed into the bloodstream, which is more likely if more than the recommended amount is used.
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat: This is a rare but serious side effect that requires immediate medical attention.
  • Immune system reactions: Minoxidil can react with the immune system and cause certain diseases if not regulated. 
  • Fatigue, tiredness, and nausea: These are less common side effects, but if they persist or worsen, medical help should be sought.

An effective alternative to rosemary oil and minoxidil

rosemary oil vs minoxidil

If you're contemplating alternatives to both rosemary oil and minoxidil, Bio-Pilixin Serum for Men might be worth exploring. 

This product aims to address hair loss and stimulate new hair growth through a blend of potent, scientifically-backed ingredients. 

The best part? It comes with a 150-day money-back guarantee, giving you the freedom to test its effectiveness without financial risk.

The ingredients include:

  • Capilia Longa: A product derived from the stem cells of the Curcuma longa plant, Capilia Longa has shown promising results in clinical trials. Specifically, studies have reported an 89% reduction in hair loss and a 52% increase in hair density when Capilia Longa was used.
  • Niacinamide: This ingredient supports hair growth by increasing blood circulation to the scalp and protecting hair follicles from damage caused by environmental factors such as pollution and UV rays.
  • Vanillyl Butyl Ether: A mild warming agent that enhances localized blood circulation to the scalp. The increased blood flow ensures the delivery of essential nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles, promoting healthier hair growth.

Compared to rosemary oil and minoxidil, Bio-Pilixin Serum could provide a more comprehensive approach to hair loss. 

While rosemary oil focuses on improving scalp circulation, greasy hair, and potentially inhibiting DHT, and minoxidil extends the growth phase of hair follicles, Bio-Pilixin Serum combines these mechanisms and adds a layer of protection against environmental stressors.

Rosemary oil vs Minoxidil: A comparative analysis

Rosemary oil and Minoxidil, both widely used for their potential hair growth-promoting properties, offer different approaches to tackling hair loss. 

Let’s analyze their differences and similarities in detail: 

Uses

Both rosemary oil and minoxidil are typically used as topical treatments for hair and scalp conditions such as hair loss. 

While rosemary oil is a natural essential oil applied to the scalp to stimulate blood circulation and potentially inhibit DHT, minoxidil is an over-the-counter medication that prolongs the growth phase of hair follicles. 

Differences

While both rosemary oil and minoxidil are used to combat hair loss, they differ significantly. To use Rosemary oil for hair,  known for its antioxidant and anti-microbial properties, it can be applied directly or combined with carrier oils to nourish hair follicles and fight scalp inflammation. It can also help combat dry hair.

Minoxidil, typically used for hair loss conditions like male pattern baldness, is a synthesized medication that promotes hair growth by enhancing scalp blood flow and stimulating hair follicles, often requiring several months of consistent application to see results. 

The primary difference between them lies in their composition: rosemary oil is a natural plant extract, whereas minoxidil is a chemically formulated topical solution.


Similarities

Despite their differences, rosemary oil and minoxidil share certain similarities. Both are known to stimulate hair growth by enhancing scalp blood flow and providing nourishment to hair follicles. 

They also both possess anti-inflammatory properties, crucial for scalp health and combating hair loss. 

Additionally, some studies suggest that both treatments may inhibit DHT, a hormone associated with hair loss, providing another commonality in their approach to hair regrowth.

Effectiveness

Scientific studies suggest that both rosemary oil and minoxidil can be effective for promoting hair growth.

In fact, one study found the effectiveness of rosemary oil to be the same as minoxidil in treating androgenetic alopecia, with fewer reported side effects. 

However, individual responses to both treatments can vary, and what works best will depend on individual circumstances and the underlying causes of hair loss.

Rosemary oil vs Minoxidil: Which one is right for you?

Choosing between rosemary oil and minoxidil depends on your personal preferences and hair loss circumstances. If you prefer natural remedies, rosemary oil, with its nourishing and antimicrobial properties, may be ideal. If you're facing severe hair loss or want a clinically-backed solution, minoxidil might be more suitable. 

Always remember to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new hair loss treatment, and consistency is key for both options.

Is rosemary oil as good as minoxidil?

rosemary oil vs minoxidil

Some scientific studies suggest that rosemary oil could be as effective as minoxidil in promoting hair growth. Both treatments have been found to increase scalp blood circulation and stimulate hair follicles. 

However, individual responses can vary, and more research is needed to definitively compare the two. 

It's also important to note that while minoxidil is FDA-approved for hair loss treatment, rosemary oil is not. 

Therefore, it's recommended to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new hair loss treatment.

How long do they take to work?

Both rosemary oil and minoxidil require consistent application over several months before noticeable results are seen. On average, minoxidil usually shows results within 3 to 6 months of regular use. Rosemary oil's timeline might be similar, but it can vary based on individual responses and the severity of hair loss. 

Remember, patience and consistency are key when using these treatments for hair loss.

Can you use rosemary and minoxidil together?

While there's no rule against using rosemary oil and minoxidil together, the effectiveness and safety of this combination haven't been extensively studied. 

Using both could potentially enhance the benefits, given their similar mechanisms of promoting hair growth. 

However, as with any treatment regimen, it's best to consult a healthcare professional before starting to ensure it's safe and suitable for your specific needs and circumstances. 

Conclusion

Both Rosemary Oil and Minoxidil present valid approaches to addressing hair loss and promoting hair growth. 

Each has unique benefits; Rosemary Oil harnesses the power of natural plant extracts to potentially improve blood circulation and inhibit DHT, while Minoxidil, an FDA-approved, safe to use, synthetic medication, is renowned for its ability to extend the growth phase of hair follicles.

Clinical studies have highlighted the efficacy of both treatments. Some have even suggested Rosemary Oil may be as effective as Minoxidil in treating androgenetic alopecia, with fewer reported side effects. 

However, individual responses can vary, and both treatments typically require consistent use over several months before noticeable results are seen.

As an alternative, the Bio-Pilixin Serum offers a comprehensive approach to hair loss treatment, incorporating both the mechanisms of Rosemary Oil and Minoxidil. 

Additionally, it brings a layer of environmental protection for hair follicles, showcasing the potential to be a highly effective solution for those dealing with hair loss.

Overall, if you are wondering whether to choose Rosemary Oil or Minoxidil, or even alternatives like Bio-Pilixin Serum, it will largely depend on individual circumstances, the severity of hair loss, and personal preference between natural or synthesized treatments. 

As always, it's highly recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new hair loss treatment regimen.

References: 
  • https://health.clevelandclinic.org/rosemary-oil-for-hair/amp/ 
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6691938/ 
  • https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(03)03692-2/fulltext 
  • Read more:
  • 15 Easy & Effective Ways How To Stop Hair Breakage At Home
  • Hair Loss Tablets: What They Are and How They Can Help You
  • The 9 Best, Unparalleled Shampoo For Fine Hair To Buy In 2023
  • Dr Amy Revene M.B.B.S. graduated from the University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. She is currently working as a General Physician at New Hope Medical Center. Amy has a passion for research and offers her expertise and opinions to help people in their quest to lead healthy, happy lives.